Congratulations to Main Street Martinsburg

June 21, 2012

The year 2012 brings an air of celebration as Main Street Martinsburg reaches a 20-year milestone of success as a certified Main Street West Virginia program.

For 14 of those 20 years, I have had the privilege of working closely with the organization. This happy occasion gives us an opportunity to reflect on the many effective programs and creative projects produced by this hard-working organization.

Successes - and challenges - have been many. With the programmatic and financial support of the City of Martinsburg, the Main Street organization has succeeded with the dedication and determination of hundreds of volunteers supporting their organization and community with time, talents and financial resources. Joining forces under the umbrella of the Main Street Four-Point Approach, partnerships from both the public and private sector have worked to preserve, enhance and invigorate the historic downtown commercial district.

As a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, Main Street Martinsburg has built its varied partnerships into a strong, functional organization. Main Street Martinsburg's Organization committee has worked with partners on the federal, state, city and county level of the public sector. It has reached out to civic and private organizations to gain support and to provide them with assistance when needed. Systematically, this committee has grown the organization into a financially stable and leadership driven force.

The design committee has successfully worked to enhance the historic physical beauty of the commercial district through "Arts" projects such as historic murals, the Festival of Banners, the Palette Project, not to mention the scarecrow and snowman projects. In partnerships with the Apollo Theatre and The Arts Center, Martinsburg is providing a vibrant "Arts" atmosphere that is inviting and involving all ages. By working to acquire funding for transportation issues, pedestrian-friendly streetscapes enhance the "downtown experience" for citizens and visitors alike.

The Promotion committee has reached for the stars and continues to enjoy success after success with programs and events that promote the commercial sector.

Economic Restructuring builds on the successes from all the committees and promotes unique business opportunities through the award-winning INVIO program. Constantly addressing the needs of the businesses currently within the district, Main Street Martinsburg aggressively works on recruitment of businesses that the citizens of Martinsburg want and need. The newly launched Univercity project at www.msmu.info is an excellent example of partnering with other agencies to make starting a business in Martinsburg a streamlined process!

Main Street Martinsburg has much to be proud of over the past 20 years. Not always easy, but steady, small steps have led to big successes. With much pride, I feel honored and privileged to work with these volunteers and through the leadership of the outstanding executive director Randy Lewis and visionary board of directors, the sky is the limit.

From the Main Street West Virginia program, I thank you for your contribution in making West Virginia the place to live, work and raise our families! All my best wishes and continued support to Main Street Martinsburg and the city of Martinsburg.